Supervisor, Microbiology (DOH/SLD#10112291)

About the organization

The New Mexico Department of Health is committed to improving the health and well‑being of all residents, working toward the goal of becoming the healthiest state by 2040. The department provides public health services, programs, and policies that support disease prevention, health promotion, and access to quality care. Team members collaborate with communities, healthcare providers, and other agencies to address health challenges and advance evidence‑based practices. The organization values innovation, accountability, and service, offering opportunities for professionals to make a meaningful impact on population health across New Mexico.

About the role

This full‑time, on‑site Supervisor, Microbiology position is based in Albuquerque, NM, and leads the Rabies testing team within the Virology/Serology section of the Biological Sciences Bureau at the New Mexico Scientific Laboratory Division (SLD).

• Direct day‑to‑day operations and mentor a team of direct reports to maintain effective workload balance, meet sample throughput goals, and ensure rapid turnaround times for public health reporting.
• Perform bench‑level testing, diagnostic examinations, and specimen collection, including necropsy of domestic and wildlife animals under BSL‑2 and BSL‑3 safety standards.
• Develop, validate, and optimize diagnostic methods.
• Manage reagent and supply inventories.
• Revise standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Ensure strict compliance with CLIA, CAP, OSHA, and CDC Select Agent regulations.
• Participate in an on‑call rotation.
• Receive the rabies pre‑exposure vaccination.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in biological sciences with emphasis on chemistry, mathematics, and/or computer science.
• Two (2) years of experience in biology, microbiology, virology, parasitology, and/or molecular biology in a laboratory setting.
• Any combination of related education and/or direct experience totaling six (6) years may substitute for the required education and experience.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Successful completion of a pre‑employment background investigation and drug testing (conditional upon results).

Working Conditions

• Work is performed in a fully functional laboratory containing biological, chemical, physical, and radiological hazards.
• The incumbent must use all applicable safety equipment provided by the employer and follow all safety precautions.
• Ability to lift or push up to 50 lb.